Mechanical engineer : Entry requirements

This area of work is open to the following engineering disciplines:

• mechanical engineering;
• engineering science;
• aeronautical engineering;
• agricultural engineering;
• computer-aided engineering;
• manufacturing engineering;
• nuclear engineering.

A good honours degree is usually required, although some employers place as much emphasis on general and people skills and commercial awareness as on class of degree. For chartered status (CEng) however, an accredited MEng degree or an acceptable combination of other academic awards is essential. This could include a BEng (Hons) that is accredited for CEng, plus an appropriate Masters degree or approved further learning to Masters level.

Some employers recruit only graduates but may consider diplomates for technical level posts. Technician training can lead to experience of development and design work at a lower level. An alternative for holders of accredited HNDs is to do a top-up course to convert to a degree, or to undertake a matching section. This may be done through a combination of work and part-time or distance-based learning. It is then possible to progress to incorporated engineer (IEng) level.

Entry without a degree or HND is possible for people over 35 who have a minimum of 15 years' experience in engineering, including responsibility for managing projects. Contact the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE)  or the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET)  for information on mature candidate schemes.

A pre-entry postgraduate qualification is not needed, although an MSc could be helpful.

Pre-entry experience is not needed, although a relevant sandwich or vacation placement can be advantageous and is highly recommended. You might be able to count some of the experience gained during a sandwich placement towards qualifying for CEng status. Vacation work, placements and sandwich courses all provide evidence of skill development and commercial awareness.

Potential candidates will need to show evidence of the following:

• a high level of technical and scientific knowledge and the ability to apply this knowledge to practical problems;
• good oral communication skills and confidence in dealing with a wide range of people (clients, contractors, designers, directors or plant operators);
• precise and concise written communication skills;
• the ability to work well within a team;
• IT skills, particularly computer-aided design;
• creative ability;
• the ability to work under pressure;
• organisational skills, such as time and resource planning.

Employers may also look for fluency in a second language.

Start finding out about employers before your final year and make contact with them at engineering recruitment fairs/shows.

For full information and guidance on entry requirements and training routes, contact the relevant professional body (either the IMechE or the IET).

For more information, see work experience and internships and search courses and research.